Begin the new year in stillness, in contemplation of the year past and the year to come.

What do you want to let go of from the last year?

Write it down. Destroy what you have written (burn it, dissolve it in water, or crumple it up and throw it in the trash.)

You don’t need to share this with anyone. It is just for you.

As you destroy it, feel yourself letting go of the anger, the fear, the anxiety, the resentment, the desperation, or the sorrow.

What aspirations do you have (for yourself) in the new year?

Write it down. Put it someplace you will re-encounter it throughout the year. Maybe in your wallet or purse, maybe tucked into the sandals you will wear when summer comes. Let it remind you, when you have forgotten all about it, what you wish for yourself.

What is the difference between an aspiration and a resolution? Why is this important?

What gift would you like to give to someone else for the coming year?

Try for a single word, a short phrase, or a picture.

Give it to someone else. Preferably a stranger, maybe someone you don’t even know who. Leave it in a library book. Tack it on a community bulletin board at a store. Be original.

Share your responses to these questions with us by email or voice.

Upcoming topics include parenting. From at least these 3 perspectives: Being the sober parent. Being the parent of an alcoholic or addict child. And how has recovery changed the way you are a parent? Please call us at 734-707-8795 or email feedback@therecoveryshow.com with your questions or experience, strength and hope. Or just leave a comment right here.Continue reading “Begin in Stillness – Episode 231”